take the starch out of (someone)
idiom
US, informal + old-fashioned
: to make (someone) weak or unsure : to cause (someone) to lose energy or confidence
When he lost the second game, it seemed to take the starch out of him.
Dictionary Entries Near take the starch out of (someone)
Cite this Entry
“Take the starch out of (someone).” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/take%20the%20starch%20out%20of%20%28someone%29. Accessed 29 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share